Bengals' Playoff Chances Ripped by NFL Fans After Brutal Loss to Herbert, Chargers

The Cincinnati Bengals are on track to miss the playoffs for the second straight year after their season struggles continued in a devastating 34-27 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Just three years removed from their 2021 Super Bowl appearance and two years from falling in the 2022 AFC Championship game, the Bengals have struggled to resemble the successful team they once were.

The Chargers can thank running back J.K. Dobbins for a game-sealing rushing touchdown that extended their lead, putting the pressure on the Bengals to score a touchdown with just 18 seconds left.

In result of their loss, the Bengals dropped to 4-7 on the season as the Chargers improve to 7-3.

Quarterback Joe Burrow completed 28-of-50 passes for 356 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions. On the other side, Justin Herbert had a standout performance, completing 17-of-36 passes for 297 yards, two touchdowns and one fumble.

The Chargers dominated the first half, taking a commanding 24-6 lead entering halftime and holding the Bengals to just two field goals, preventing them from reaching the end zone until midway through the third quarter.

Cincinnati stormed back in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to seven points as they entered the fourth. In a finish that nobody saw coming, the Bengals tied it 27-27, keeping the Chargers and NFL fans on their toes. Despite their strong comeback, their early deficit proved too much to overcome.

The Bengals are two games behind the Denver Broncos for the last Wild Card spot, while the Chargers, now the No. 1 Wild Card seed in the AFC, are on track to make their first playoff appearance since 2022.

Despite their exciting attempt at a comeback, fans took to social media to express their frustrations with Burrow and the Bengals for their lackluster season following their seventh loss of the season.

The Bengals head into a bye week, while the Chargers will face the 7-4 Baltimore Ravens at home next Monday.